FaunaClassifieds - Florida Snakebite Institute Announcement

Posted on their Facebook page:

TO ALL VENOMOUS REPTILE KEEPERS IN THE UNITED STATES: Kristen Wiley who co-ordinates antivenom import for multiple zoos including the Kentucky Reptile Zoo in the US has issued a statement that It is time for these zoos, to renew their stocks of South African Polyvalent which is expiring this month. Despite attempts, she has been unable to get a response from them since early March, and it is most likely due to the COVID-19 crisis which has South Africa shut down. Given the immediate crisis it is unlikely contact will be achieved any time soon.

WHY DOES THIS MATTER? This means that the current supply of South African Vaccine Producers (SAVP) antivenom in the US is probably the only supply of this particular AV that is going to available until this crisis is over, Furthermore it is extremely likely they will have another project take precedence if they shift to producing COVID vaccine which may involve multiple vaccine-producing companies.

So, now is not the time for any venomous keeper to ANY unnecessary risks which may increase the risk of a bite. Don't pose for unnecessary photos especially those involving unsafe handling practices, unnecessary probing, unsafe husbandry practices, etc. RIGHT NOW IS NOT THE TIME TO HAVE TO GO TO THE HOSPITAL FOR A BITE WHETHER IT IS FROM A NATIVE OR EXOTIC SPECIES!

FIRST: By going to the hospital you are increasing your risk of exposure to the Covid-19 virus by being around others that may have it! SECOND: If you are bitten by a species requiring this antivenom, YOU NOW HAVE 2 ADDITIONAL ISSUES! (1) Will the zoo give you their stock of SAVP antivenom when it is not likely to be replaced any time soon (Which affects the safety of their keepers)? (2) Will the doctor even use it especially it is expired? KEEP THOSE ISSUES IN THE BACK OF YOUR MIND AS YOU INTERACT WITH YOUR REPTILES! BE CAREFUL, BE SMART, AND BE SAFE! HAPPY HERPING!

This has been a venomous community safety message from the Florida Snakebite Institute, the Kentucky Reptile Zoo and the National Snakebite Support Staff.